Porto-Novo is both the historical and cultural capital city of Benin, although Cotonou now serves as the financial and administrative center of the country. Benin, prior to becoming a parliamentary democracy was a kingdom with over 40 local tribes, ruled by a King. No longer a king, the “king” holds the title of “Chief,” who, once selected, serves for life as a spiritual leader, but still lives in a “palace.” We visited his” palace” and the image depicts him coming out of the palace compound to greet us with his retinae as we entered the compound. The current “king” is a former military officer.
Gear: SONY a-7 IV, FE 24-240 mm lens opened to 49 mm
Data: ISO 200, f 8, 1/320 sec .
Metering: Pattern
White balance: Auto
EV = -.3
Dave: February 16, 2024
This round’s discussion is now closed! 7 comments posted
Pamela Liu
Alan, The image of the visit to the Benin king's palace captures a unique moment of cultural interaction. You had skillfully portrays the king, a former military officer, emerging from the palace to greet the visitors. The use of perspective and timing in capturing the king's welcoming gesture adds depth and warmth to the scene. The composition effectively conveys the honor and tradition associated with such encounters, highlighting the fusion of history and contemporary leadership in the palace setting. This image not only showcases the technical proficiency but also tells a compelling travel story of cultural immersion and royal hospitality. I really like it. Posted: 06/04/2024 03:58:25
Alan Lichtenstein
Pamela, I am humbled. Thank you for your kind words. Posted: 06/04/2024 07:22:15
Vinaya Mathews
Loved the analysis, Pamela Posted: 06/05/2024 00:34:51
Dr. Isaac Vaisman
Alan you have visited many countries in Africa. Pamela's description leaves me without words. Nothing else I could say about the image. It is sharp. Posted: 06/04/2024 09:50:42
Vinaya Mathews
Good candid cultural event shot. Appreciate to visit such traditional places and capturing such events which become the events of the past with the time. Capturing the history, preserving it is one of the duties of the photographers, I feel. You have done a great job Posted: 06/05/2024 00:37:49
Tom Tauber
Alan, I always wanted to go there. The museums of the world are full of looted treasure from Benin, especially the bronze plaques and other sculptures that were all over the palace of the king (I believe they called him Oba then). Sad that the British destroyed that high civilization (which probably benefited from the slave trade, I might add). Really interesting photograph. Posted: 06/10/2024 16:14:02
Michele Borgarelli
(Group 1)
Can't add more of what other have already said. Great image convey well the culture and the dignity of the "chief".
